New study scans brains to uncover why COVID-19 triggers depression

NCT ID NCT06086366

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study uses PET and MRI scans to look at brain changes in people who developed depression within three months after a mild or moderate COVID-19 infection. Researchers will compare brain scans of 90 participants to see if key brain chemicals are altered. The goal is to better understand the link between COVID-19 and new-onset depression, not to test a treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this study could reveal how COVID-19 affects brain chemistry, pointing toward better treatments for post-COVID depression.

What could go wrong

This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not find clear differences, and results may not apply to everyone with long COVID.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anhedonia long COVID-19 major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

    RECRUITING

    Toronto, Ontario, Canada

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••